How to Accept Phone Calls from Jail Without Paying
Are you trying to receive calls from your loved one who is incarcerated in a jail or prison but struggling with the financial burden? Here's a comprehensive guide to help you accept phone calls from jail without paying for it.
Understanding the Costs of Inmate Phone Calls
Many jails and prisons require inmates to pay for phone calls using funds from their commissary accounts, often referred to as inmate phone accounts. While some facilities allow collect calls, it's not a common practice anymore due to limitations with mobile and landline providers. Inmate phone accounts can be managed by your brother, allowing him to make calls without additional charges to you. Unfortunately, if you don't have the funds to cover the charges, you won't be able to receive calls this way.
Explore Free Call Programs
Some organizations offer programs that enable inmates to make free calls to family members. You should check if such programs are available in your brother's facility. These organizations might offer free calling time or even provide free phone cards. If your brother is part of one of these programs, he might be able to make a free call to you.
Consider Free Alternatives and Communication Methods
If phone calls are not feasible, other communication methods should be considered. For instance, you could write letters or use email services to stay in touch with your brother. Some jails have systems that allow inmates to send electronic messages which can be a more affordable option.
Contact the Jail for Specific Information
It's always a good idea to direct contact the jail or prison where your brother is held. They can provide specific information about their phone policies and any possible options for you. Additionally, they may offer alternative ways to communicate that you might not be aware of.
Save Money on Prison and Jail Phone Calls
Tired of spending hundreds of dollars a month on prison phone calls? Fortunately, there are ways to save money on inmate phone bills by taking advantage of third-party vendors and new technology. Here’s how it works:
Establish a Local Telephone Number
There are two primary ways an inmate can call you: collect calls or pre-paid calling accounts. Collect calls unfortunately cannot be saved with money; however, pre-paid calling accounts can be a cost-effective solution. When an inmate calls a pre-paid calling account, the call is charged to the account holder, not you.
Set Up a Google Voice Number
Google Voice is a useful tool that allows users to sign up for free and choose any number they want. This number is then forwarded to an existing number, which can be a landline or a cell phone. Here’s how to set it up:
Step 1: Sign Up for a Google Account
To sign up for Google Voice, you can either create a new Google account or use an existing one. If you have a Gmail account, you already have a Google account. You can sign up for Google Voice here.
Step 2: Select a Google Voice Number
Ensure the Google Voice number you select has the same area code as the facility. The number issued to you by Google Voice will be the one your brother needs to list on his approved call list. It will also be the number he will dial each time he wants to call you.
Step 3: Use Google Voice to Setup a Prepaid Calling Account
Use Google Voice to set up an account with a pre-paid inmate calling provider, such as Securus, Global Tel Link, or IC Solutions. This will ensure that the calls made from the inmate’s phone are charged to the pre-paid calling account, not to you.
Contact Details
To find the facilities telephone number, visit the facility page on our website. Ensure the number you choose for Google Voice is local to the facility to minimize charges and make it easier to manage.
Conclusion
With a little effort and the right tools, you can establish a way to communicate with your brother without incurring hefty costs. Whether through a free Google Voice number, a call from a pre-paid calling account, or alternative communication methods, there are ways to stay in touch without spending a fortune. Reach out to the jail for specific information and explore all options available to you.